Visiting Colomares Castle, near Benalmádena, was one of the most enchanting day trips we took from Málaga. Just a short journey—about 40 minutes by train on the Cercanías C1 line toward Fuengirola, followed by a 15-minute uphill walk or a quick local bus ride—the trip was easy and rewarding. As we approached the site, the fairytale-like silhouette of the castle came into view, and we instantly knew we were somewhere special.
The Castillo de Colomares isn’t an ancient fortress but rather a monument built between 1987 and 1994 by Dr. Esteban Martín Martín, dedicated to Christopher Columbus and the discovery of America. What struck us immediately was the incredible mix of architectural styles—Gothic, Romanesque, Byzantine, and Mudejar—all beautifully woven together in stone, brick, and tile. The craftsmanship was astonishing; every tower, arch, and carved relief told a piece of Spain’s maritime and cultural history.
We wandered through the courtyards, admiring intricate mosaics and small symbolic details—a ship’s bow here, a cross there—each representing an aspect of Columbus’s journey and Spain’s role in it. The castle also houses the smallest church in the world, officially recognized by the Guinness Book of Records.
From the terrace, we enjoyed sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Costa del Sol, a sight that perfectly complemented the castle’s dreamlike ambiance. Though compact, we spent a leisurely hour exploring and taking photos before heading back to Málaga.
Colomares felt like a hidden gem—part history lesson, part work of art, and completely magical.